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I think that it can be agreed by most that the best musical instrument a person can have is the voice. If the voice is well tuned in then there can be some superb musical works. Look at Adele. A prime example. And now look at Eddie Vedder.

Unusual perhaps, but the Seattle based Pearl Jam vocalist has released an acoustic/folk album with two main instruments. His voice which many of us regard as pretty fantastic and a ukulele which many of us regard to be a bit of a joke. There is no reason to really. It is a simple stringed unit which is quite sweet and endearing when played in a subtle manner which Vedder does well throughout this album of Ukulele Songs.

I’ve listened to the album a couple of times this afternoon with the windows open, the sun shining, birds tweeting and the dog barking like mad. The music has been a delight. From tracks such as You’re True, Longing To Belong – both below – and the wonderfully simple and romantic rendition of Dream A Little Dream.

Each track shows off Vedder’s chivalrous baritone vocals which continue to this day to also be passionate, seemingly impetuous and amorous to the rhythm of the music on this dinky, little guitar.

Amercian singer/songwriter Cat Powers appears alongside on one track Tonight You Belong To Me and Irishman Glen Hansard from the amazing BAFTA Award winning film The Commitments, Irish group The Frames and one half of folk rock duo, The Swell Season performs on Sleepless Nights. A duet of two men singing in unison which is just a song that will even melt pacemakers. For me the best song on here as it is heartfelt, mellow and true.

This album is an absolute pleasure which is very suitable for lazy Sundays and chillout evenings. A charming release.

Ukulele Songs by Eddie Vedder is out now released by Islands Records.